NTC has Already Allocated Partial 6GHz Band for WIFI7 in the Philippines

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has officially allocated a portion of the 6 GHz frequency band for Wi-Fi use in the Philippines, marking a significant development for the deployment of modern wireless comms primarily WIFI7 and WIFI6e. This allocation is expected to enhance the country’s wireless connectivity, offering faster network speeds, reduced latency, and improved network efficiency for consumers and businesses alike.

In a memorandum circular issued on July 5, 2024, the NTC amended the operating parameters for Short Range Devices (SRDs), which include Wi-Fi technologies. The update involves the allocation of the 5925 – 6425 MHz frequency band—a critical spectrum for the next generation of Wi-Fi devices. While this represents a substantial step forward, it is important to note that the full 6 GHz band, which ranges from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, has not been fully allocated. Only the lower part of this band is currently available for WIFI6E and WIFI7 use.

Partial Frequency Allocation

The NTC has allocated the 5925 – 6425 MHz portion of the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi use. This partial allocation supports WIFI6E and WIFI7 devices but does not include the entire 6 GHz band, which extends up to 7125 MHz.

Power Limits

• Indoor and Outdoor Use: Devices operating on the allocated 6 GHz band (5925 – 6425 MHz) for general use are allowed a maximum power output of 25 mW eirp.
• Indoor Use Only: Devices can operate at a higher power output of up to 250 mW eirp when used indoors, ensuring stronger signals and better performance within homes and offices.

Prohibition on Drone Use

The memorandum specifically prohibits the use of the 6 GHz band on unmanned aircraft systems (drones), likely to prevent interference with other critical communication systems.

Implications for Consumers and the Industry

This update is expected to have a significant impact on both consumers and the telecommunications industry in the Philippines. The allocation of the 5925 – 6425 MHz band enables the deployment of WIFI 6E devices, which are already available in the market, and paves the way for the next generation of Wi-Fi 7 devices, anticipated to offer unprecedented wireless speeds and network capabilities. However, the partial allocation may limit the full potential of these technologies, as the unallocated portion of the 6 GHz band (6425 – 7125 MHz) remains unavailable for use.

WIFI6E extends WIFI6 into the 6 GHz band, providing additional spectrum that reduces congestion and improves overall network performance, particularly in dense environments. Meanwhile, WIFI7, which is on the horizon, promises even faster speeds, lower latency, and enhanced reliability, making it ideal for applications such as 8K streaming, virtual reality, and online gaming.

For businesses, especially those in the technology and telecommunications sectors, this development presents an opportunity to innovate and offer new products and services that leverage the capabilities of WIFI6E and WIFI7. Consumers, on the other hand, can look forward to better, more reliable internet connections as these technologies become more widely adopted, albeit within the currently allocated spectrum.

Effective Date

The NTC’s memorandum will take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation. This means that the legal use of the 5925 – 6425 MHz band for WIFI6E and WIFI7 devices in the Philippines is imminent, with compliance and adoption expected to follow swiftly.

The NTC’s decision to allocate a portion of the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi use is a forward-looking move that positions the Philippines at the forefront of wireless connectivity advancements in the region. While the allocation is partial, it nonetheless allows for the introduction of WIFI6E and WIFI7 technologies, bringing enhanced wireless capabilities to the country. As the Philippines prepares for the widespread adoption of these technologies, consumers and businesses alike will benefit from the improved performance and efficiency that WIFI6E and WIFI7 offer. However, the full potential of these advancements will be fully realized only when the entire 6 GHz band is made available for use if and should they be made available.